Luis Enrique's promising young players take Montjuïc

Paris Saint-Germain made a statement in the Champions League by defeating Barcelona at Montjuïc. But beyond the scoreline, what truly stunned everyone was Luis Enrique’s gamble: putting his faith in youth. Five academy players, four of them starters and under 20 years old, became the protagonists of a historic night that has set off alarms across Europe.

With big names missing like Ousmane Dembélé, Désiré Doué, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, the Spanish coach went all-in on his young talents. And it worked. Senny Mayulu, just 19, scored the equalizer with the composure of a seasoned veteran. Ibrahim Mbaye, at 17, was a constant nightmare for Koundé. And Warren Zaire-Emery, only 19, played with the authority of a midfield general.

Mayulu and Mbaye: PSG’s Young Jewels

Mayulu, who joined PSG at just 14, had already shined in last season’s Champions League final against Inter. Now, on the Montjuïc stage, he confirmed his place as one of Luis Enrique’s greatest bets. The coach didn’t hold back in his praise: “He has enormous quality, you’ll all get to know him soon. He can play anywhere in attack and always makes the difference.”

Mbaye was another revelation. At 16 years and 6 months, he became the youngest player ever to start for PSG in the Champions League, surpassing the record of teammate Zaire-Emery. His boldness, pace, and fearless attitude exposed Barcelona’s defense.

PSG Challenges Europe With Its Academy

Beyond individual names, the match was a statement of intent: PSG is not only about multi-million signings, it also trusts its academy. Quentin Ndjantou, 18, made his Champions League debut after being called up in an emergency and held his own under the spotlight.

The mix of youth and experience gave PSG the energy it needed to dominate the second half. While Barça crumbled physically, the Parisian youngsters ran as if there was no tomorrow.

Luis Enrique: The Architect of the Revolution

The Spanish coach didn’t just win a match, he won credibility. After lifting the Champions League last season, he’s now proving that he can build a team capable of competing at the highest level with academy talent. 

“We played with kids aged 17 and 18, and it’s fantastic. They believe in themselves, and I believe in them,” he said post-match.

The triumph at Montjuïc was not just another step toward back-to-back European glory, but confirmation that PSG’s future is already here. And that future has a youthful face.